Key Aspects:
- MSC Cruises is adding new family-friendly and adults-only features to Ocean Cay.
- The current pier is being extended to accommodate two ships at once.
- A second private island is also in development nearby, but few details are known at this time.
MSC Cruises’ private island destination in the Bahamas, MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, is a favorite port visit for guests, and it’s about to get even more amazing with new upgrades and the ability to welcome more ships by late 2027.
The cruise line announced on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 that new upgrades are now underway, with “new facilities to enhance the guest experience.” But what experiences are being enhanced?
All of them! First, four new dining venues will be added around the island. While menus have not been released, the new offerings will include buffets, food market options, and a signature specialty restaurant. This will undoubtedly offer more dining options for guests will all types of dietary needs and preferences, while ensuring lines remain short and manageable.
The popular Seakers Cove Family Beach area will also be thoroughly upgraded with exciting new features. A kid’s playground and splash pad with fountains will be added for the youngest cruisers, while more adventurous guests can tackle the ropes course with slides, towers, and water elements sure to test balance and daring.
The whole family will enjoy new ping-pong and foosball, great options for all ages and multi-generational fun with tournaments and other interactive games.
Read Also: I Spent a Day at MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve – Here’s What You Should Know
For adults who want a quieter getaway for oceanside relaxation, Paradise Sands will be an adults-only retreat with a quiet beach featuring plentiful loungers and perfect sunset views.
Throughout the island, more cabanas of different sizes and styles will be added, giving guests even more chances for exclusive luxury that will define their perfect way to relax.
New Marine Conservation Experience Coming
Of special note is MSC Cruises’ ongoing commitment to conservation at Ocean Cay. From its first opening in December 2019, the island has had a focus on conservation and restoration. In fact, the island was formerly an industrial site for sand excavation that the cruise line restored to its natural beauty with a diverse and flourishing marine ecosystem.
Coming with the new enhancements will be a brand new “Shifting Perspective” marine conservation experience. This interactive encounter invites guests to explore different conservation approaches with immersive, hands-on activities.
From coral restoration to exploration of different oceanic ecosystems, the experience focuses on scientific discover, conservation, and preservation, helping guests connect to the water and marine life that makes MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve so special and unique.
Pier Extension to Accommodate Two Ships
With so many great things to come by the time the enhancements are finished in late 2027, a high priority is expanding the pier capacity to welcome more than one ship at a time.
Construction work to extend the pier is already underway and due for completion next year. This will ensure that multiple vessels can visit the popular private island, a critical need as MSC Cruises continues to expand its North American presence following the opening of its Miami headquarters just days ago.
With even more MSC ships coming to North America when MSC World Atlantic debuts from Port Canaveral in November 2027, the extended pier will be essential for more guests to enjoy the destination.
A New Island Coming?
As a special note, MSC Cruises has confirmed the development of a second private island destination as well.
“This as-yet-unnamed island, known internally as Little Cay, will stay true to the ethos of Ocean Cay, offering an experience that connects guests to nature, pristine beaches, and the beauty of the ocean plus luxury facilities and water features,” the cruise line said.
The new destination is “adjacent” to Ocean Cay but is a separate piece of property. No further details have been revealed, including any possible features, whether or not it will be an entirely separate destination or if guests can visit while docked at Ocean Cay, or when it might debut.
Stay tuned to Cruise Hive in the coming weeks and months as more details are released!
